I have a 2000 f250 diesel (45k miles) and on a cold start the engine surges tremendously - definitely not normal. The cylinders do not appear to all be firing and the engine is very off-balance, but only if it is cold 50 degrees or below and it has been sitting for a long time.
I took it into the dealer and they are saying it is normal after replacing glow plug relay. I have also tried changing the batteries and fuel filter. The dealership is saying this is a problem with the oil and it is too thick and needs changed, but I only have 2500 miles on this oil change (using 10w-30).

Any Ideas?

thanks - Jim

 

When starting my 2000 7.3L in the cold (25 and below) it surges for about 2 minutes then smoothes out.

 

My 2002 7.3 will do the same thing when the temperature falls below about 35. If you plug it in at night it will not so this. I think it is normal, when the engine is so cold.

 

This is true, when plugged in, it won't surge at all.
Luke

 

ebv-exhaust bypass valve
do a search...it's been covered a millions times

 

The other suggestion is to do the HX hose. It basically balances the pressure betweent the cylinder heads. Makes a much smoother, quieter idle.